Duty to Report: Responsibilities and Pathways

Counsellors are often caught between the requirement to report to protective agencies and our desire to maintain therapeutic alliance and engagement in counselling. Navigating that tension will be explored and processes highlighted that may protect the client’s participation in therapy.

This workshop will give an overview of the legislative responsibilities for reporting when a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of harm. The counsellor’s role in the reporting process will be outlined, and practical tips provided that may increase the effectiveness of a report and enhance safety of vulnerable persons in the process of investigation.

This workshop is of particular relevance for counsellors working with children, youth and families

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:

Susan Armstrong, M.Ed. R.C.C. A.C.S.

Susan lives and works in the North Okanagan, Sylix and Secwepemc territories, and has provided trauma specific counselling for thirty-three years to children and adults. She has had lived experience of reporting to MCFD, and the RCMP and has worked alongside an aboriginal nation with C6 delegation. Susan currently provides clinical supervision, training to professionals and aboriginal communities and critical incident debriefing.